Distributed Generation (Net Metering) Growth, Areas of Concern Tool

1 – The state’s Distributed Generation Program enables people to install on-site renewable energy electric generation projects to meet some or all of their electric energy needs and reduce their bills.

The customer reduces electricity purchases from the utility by using their generated electricity “behind the meter” and receives a credit for excess generation.

A new report from the Michigan Public Service Commission says participation in the program increased from 2,582 customers and 2,684 installations in 2016 to 3,277 customers and 3,427 installations in 2017.

Via the Michigan Public Service Commission

At the end of 2017, the total capacity of program installations was about 29,571 kilowatts, an increase of 35 percent over the previous year.

Participation in the Distributed Generation Program, formerly known as the net metering program, has increased each year since 2006, with nearly 700 customers added in 2017.

Ninety three percent of program participants have installed solar projects, with a small number of wind projects.

While the program continues to grow, it still represents only 0.032 percent of Michigan’s total retail electricity sales.